Vincent Bolloré nears the 30% threshold in shares of Aegis, almost enough to bid for it

French financier Vincent Bolloré has raised his stake in UK media-buying group Aegis to almost 30%.

Mr Bolloré's holding company Bolloré Group has taken its holding in Aegis from 29.15% to 29.86%, almost up to the 30% threshold at which it would have to make a bid for the company.

He began building his stake in Aegis in August 2005, shortly after he took control of rival advertising group Havas in a boardroom coup.

Mr Bollore has made four unsuccessful attempts to get seats on Aegis's board, most recently at the firm's annual general meeting in May.

He has vowed to keep calling shareholder meetings until he gets his way and is expected to demand another vote this autumn.

Aegis has consistently resisted the move, arguing there would be a conflict of interest because of Mr Bolloré's role as chairman and leading shareholder in Havas. But Mr Bolloré has said his nominees would be independent.

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